Graphite carbon coated TiN nanoparticles as high durable oxygen reduction reaction catalyst in alkaline electrolyte

The novel composite structure of TiN nanoparticles enclosed by graphite carbon coating (TiN/C) has been successfully prepared through a facile one-step solid state method under N-2 atmosphere using the TiO2 powder and melamine as raw materials. TiN nanoparticles with size ranging from 12 to 15 nm are covered by filmy graphite carbon layer, and their electrocatalytic properties towards oxygen reduction are further investigated. Benefiting from the surface chemical bonding of oxide and oxynitride components, TiN/C nanocomposite exhibit a considerable catalytic activity. The current density of TiN/C nanocomposite (4.65 mA cm(-2) at 0.2 V) is comparable to that of commercial Pt/C catalyst, in spite of a little more negative gap in onset potential. Moreover, the TiN/C nanocomposite has excellent long time durability and methanol tolerant performance with the protection of graphite carbon coating.